Mecha Comet Modular Linux Handheld with NXP i.MX 8M Mini, 3.4-inch IPS LED Touchscreen, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0

2 February, 2025

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The Mecha Comet is a modular Linux handheld computer developed by Mecha Systems Inc., designed for developers, makers, and tinkerers. Showcased at CES 2025, the device focuses on modularity, repairability, and open-source design, making it ideal for development, prototyping, and general-purpose computing. Its architecture draws inspiration from the Raspberry Pi, the modularity of Project Ara, and the simplicity of the Simputer.

The Simputer, a Linux-based handheld computer developed in India in the early 2000s, served as a key inspiration for the Comet. Known for its affordability and versatility, the Simputer is often credited with influencing modern mobile computing devices. Mecha Comet builds on this legacy with a modular design that enables easy upgrades and repairs, complemented by open-source software for customization and innovation. It is set to debut on Kickstarter, targeting users who value flexibility and portable Linux-based solutions.

Mecha Comet Linux computer Specifications:

SoC: NXP i.MX 8M Mini
- CPU:
  - Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 (1.8 GHz per core)
  - Cortex-M4 core (up to 400 MHz)
  - 32KB L1 Cache, 512KB L2 Cache
- GPU: Vivante GC NanoUltra 3D (1 shader), GC30 2D
- VPU:
  - Encoding: 1080p60 H.264, VP8
  - Decoding: 1080p60 H.265, H.264, VP8, VP9
Memory: 4GB LPDDR4 RAM
Storage:
- 32GB eMMC NAND Flash (110MB/s write, 250MB/s read)
- Expandable storage (up to 2TB)
Display:
- 3.4-inch capacitive touchscreen (2-finger touch)
- LED-backlit LCD with 480×480 resolution (200 PPI)
Camera:
- OmniVision OV5640 5 MP sensor with autofocus
- Video: 1080p@30fps, 960p@45fps, 720p@60fps
Audio:
- 2x digital microphones (PDM MEMS)
- HD speaker (1.2W rated power, 6 Ohm impedance)
Networking:
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
- Bluetooth 5.0 with BLE
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45
USB:
- 1x USB 2.0 Type-A (OTG support)
- 1x USB 2.0 Type-A
Expansion:
- 40 pogo pins: 14x GPIO, 4x ADC, 2x UART, 2x I2C, 1x SPI, 2x PWM, 1x USB, 1x RTC
- M.2 slot (PCIe 2.0, 1 lane, M-key for 2230 cards)
Sensors:
- 6-axis gyroscope motion sensor
- 16-bit single-channel ADC
Miscellaneous:
- RGB programmable LED
- Onboard RTC with coin-cell support
Security:
- Trust Anchor (CC EAL 6+), ARM hardware crypto accelerator
- Isolated trust anchor for RSA, ECC, and AES keys
- Accelerated OpenSSL 3.0/1.1.1g support
Power:
- 3000mAh Li-Po battery
- USB Type-C power input (5V, 2-3A)
- Fast charging (0-50% in 25 minutes)
- Power consumption: 2.5-10W
Dimensions: 150mm x 73.55mm x 16mm
Weight: 220 grams

The Mecha Comet is a modular Linux handheld computer designed with a 40-pin magnetic interface for custom module expansion. It operates on the Linux kernel 6.6 and supports hardware using open-source drivers, except for Bluetooth. The device emphasizes repairability and expandability, making it suitable for various development and prototyping tasks. It is compatible with add-ons like Raspberry Pi HATs and mikroBUS Click boards for enhanced functionality.

The Comet runs Mechanix OS, a Debian-based operating system that provides access to over 60,000 software packages from the Debian repository. Mechanix OS allows users to port other Linux distributions for added flexibility. The built-in Mechanix Shell, developed in Rust, supports GPU rendering using Wayland. The device is versatile and can be utilized as a DIY Linux phone, drone controller, AI assistant, nanosatellite controller, car diagnostics tool, radio transceiver, or DIY robot controller.

Kickstarter followers or subscribers will be able to benefit from super early-bird rewards when the project goes live shortly, with pricing for the Mecha Comet starting from $159. Additional information can be found on the product page and GitHub repository page as well.